Inside Texas Politics (12/3/17)

U.S. Representative Joe Barton (R-Ellis) will not run for re-election. Nude pictures of him online and sexually suggestive Facebook messages were enough to end his long political career. After 32 years, Barton’s seat is open. Three Republicans have already filed to run. Tarrant County Tax Assessor/Collector Ron Wright is considered the leading candidate. He couldn’t join Inside Texas Politics this week. Jake Ellzey, a retired U.S. Navy fighter pilot, was the first candidate to file. He joined host David Schechter, in for Jason Whitely, and Bud Kennedy of the Star-Telegram.

STATEWIDE Last month, in Austin, a proposal to reduce sexual harassment at the Capitol was sent to state House members. It requires that all lawmakers and their staff get sexual harassment training. All of this happened after the Texas Tribune reported how current procedures offered little protection for victims. Patrick Svitek, in for Ross Ramsey, covers the capitol for the Tribune. He discussed the changes he thinks might happen at the state House, and if they will make a difference. Svitek also talked about longtime lobbyist Trey Blocker challenging Agriculture Commissioner Sid Miller in the upcoming March 6 primary.

MY VOICE, MY OPINION According to attorney and activist Amanda Ghagar, divisiveness is smothering our country. In today’s My Voice, My Opinion she says that what is needed is more respect and gratitude towards others.

NEWSMAKER 2 Democratic Businessman Mike Collier of Houston is campaigning to unseat Lieutenant Governor Dan Patrick. In the Dallas area recently, Collier told Jason Whitely why he thinks he can win the race for lieutenant governor.

FLASHPOINT A string of politicians, in both parties, are facing allegations of sexual misconduct. Should they resign from office? That question sparked this week’s Flashpoint. From then right, Mark Davis with 660 AM -- the Answer. And from the left, former Democratic State Representative Domingo Garcia.

ROUNDTABLE Reporters roundtable puts the headlines in perspective each week. Bud Kennedy and Patrick Svitek returned to discuss whether the Republican party pushed Congressman Joe Barton out, reports that Dallas County Sheriff Lupe Valdez will run for governor, and whether President Trump is finished with U. S. Secretary of State Rex Tillerson and sending him home to Denton.